WONDERS of the universe are expected to attract hundreds of star gazers from all over the country to Runcorn.

A north west astronomy festival is being held at The Heath Business and Technical Park from July 1-3.

The event was launched in 2013 by Runcorn couple Sue and Andrew Davies who run the Knowledge Observatory at Wigg Island.

They have inspired people across Halton to discover the magic of the sky through their astronomy clubs.

Top astronomers including Jane Green, Nigel Henbest, Heather Couper, Nick Howes, Stuart Atkinson, Gary palmer and astrophysicist Argo Megan will present illustrated talks and workshops on a variety of topics.

Help, advice, and tuition will be available for beginners.

Other attractions include a planetarium, trade stalls, demonstrations, telescope surgery, solar watch and question and answer session.

This year an extra student day has been introduced on Friday, July 1 organised by Liverpool John Moores University astrophysics department.

It is suitable for any secondary school pupils studying science.

Admission is £2 on the door.

Saturday is the main festival day with three presentations by authors of astronomy publications.

Meterorites and Apollo memorabilia will be on show and there will be a chance to build and launch a rocket.

Sunday is family day with workshops, demonstrations and hands on activities.

Admission on Saturday and Sunday is £5 on the door.

Children under 16 go free.

Visit nwastrofest.co.uk for more details.